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At least 37 records · Page 2

A summary of the Dynamics Explorer /DE/-2 spacecraft attitude control operations and dynamics

A summary of attitude control operations and observed attitude dynamics for the Dynamics Explorer (DE)-2 spacecraft is presented. By performing a systematic analysis of spacecraft drift and through optimization of modeling parameters in dynamics simulators, insight is given into spacecraft dynamics, techniques for reducing drift, and methods for streamlining operational procedures. This paper discusses how attitude and momentum drift were reduced for DE-2 by changing spacecraft geometry, altering operational procedures and making timely use of the control modes available. Attempts to correlate spacecraft drift activity with known environmental variables are made with only limited success.

Stengle, T. H.

Review and evaluation of recent developments in melic inlet dynamic flow distortion prediction and computer program documentation and user's manual estimating maximum instantaneous inlet flow distortion from steady-state total pressure measurements with full, limited, or no dynamic data

A review of the Melick method of inlet flow dynamic distortion prediction by statistical means is provided. These developments include the general Melick approach with full dynamic measurements, a limited dynamic measurement approach, and a turbulence modelling approach which requires no dynamic rms pressure fluctuation measurements. These modifications are evaluated by comparing predicted and measured peak instantaneous distortion levels from provisional inlet data sets. A nonlinear mean-line following vortex model is proposed and evaluated as a potential criterion for improving the peak instantaneous distortion map generated from the conventional linear vortex of the Melick method. The model is simplified to a series of linear vortex segments which lay along the mean line. Maps generated with this new approach are compared with conventionally generated maps, as well as measured peak instantaneous maps. Inlet data sets include subsonic, transonic, and supersonic inlets under various flight conditions.

Schweikhard, W. G.

Toward dynamic separation without dynamic stall

The concept of vorticity separation without dynamic stall is illustrated by flow visualization. A small airfoil with a rotating nose, originally built for the demonstration of static stall control, was placed in a wind tunnel and dynamically pitched. The flow around the airfoil during pitch was successfully visualized and filmed. It exhibited dynamic trailing edge separation of vorticity without leading edge dynamic stall. Diagrams of the airfoil assembly are included.

Freymuth, P.

Finite-element analysis and multibody dynamics issues in rotorcraft dynamic analysis

There is general agreement that the development of effective rotorcraft analysis software will require the use of modern computational mechanics methodologies, especially finite element analysis and multibody dynamics. This paper examines the analysis of rotorcraft dynamics from the perspective of these methodologies. First, a general discussion of rotorcraft analysis and modeling is presented. Then, a hierarchy of rotorcraft analyses is presented, ranging from simple to complex kinematics, where it is shown that in comprehensive rotorcraft software, finite element analysis must be augmented by multibody dynamics in order to properly analyze large motions of rotorcraft components. Finally, a review of multibody dynamics is presented to further familiarize the rotorcraft community with this technology.

Ruzicka, Gene C.

Virtual-pulse time integral methodology: A new explicit approach for computational dynamics - Theoretical developments for general nonlinear structural dynamics

The present paper describes a new explicit virtual-pulse time integral methodology for nonlinear structural dynamics problems. The purpose of the paper is to provide the theoretical basis of the methodology and to demonstrate applicability of the proposed formulations to nonlinear dynamic structures. Different from the existing numerical methods such as direct time integrations or mode superposition techniques, the proposed methodology offers new perspectives and methodology of development, and possesses several unique and attractive computational characteristics. The methodology is tested and compared with the implicit Newmark method (trapezoidal rule) through a nonlinear softening and hardening spring dynamic models. The numerical results indicate that the proposed explicit virtual-pulse time integral methodology is an excellent alternative for solving general nonlinear dynamic problems.

Chen, Xiaoqin

A Combined Geometric Approach for Computational Fluid Dynamics on Dynamic Grids

A combined geometric approach for computational fluid dynamics is presented for the analysis of unsteady flow about mechanisms in which its components are in moderate relative motion. For a CFD analysis, the total dynamics problem involves the dynamics of the aspects of geometry modeling, grid generation, and flow modeling. The interrelationships between these three aspects allow for a more natural formulation of the problem and the sharing of information which can be advantageous to the computation of the dynamics. The approach is applied to planar geometries with the use of an efficient multi-block, structured grid generation method to compute unsteady, two-dimensional and axisymmetric flow. The applications presented include the computation of the unsteady, inviscid flow about a hinged-flap with flap deflections and a high-speed inlet with centerbody motion as part of the unstart / restart operation.

Slater, John W.

Dynamic Inlet Distortion Prediction with a Combined Computational Fluid Dynamics and Distortion Synthesis Approach

A procedure has been developed for predicting peak dynamic inlet distortion. This procedure combines Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and distortion synthesis analysis to obtain a prediction of peak dynamic distortion intensity and the associated instantaneous total pressure pattern. A prediction of the steady state total pressure pattern at the Aerodynamic Interface Plane is first obtained using an appropriate CFD flow solver. A corresponding inlet turbulence pattern is obtained from the CFD solution via a correlation linking root mean square (RMS) inlet turbulence to a formulation of several CFD parameters representative of flow turbulence intensity. This correlation was derived using flight data obtained from the NASA High Alpha Research Vehicle flight test program and several CFD solutions at conditions matching the flight test data. A distortion synthesis analysis is then performed on the predicted steady state total pressure and RMS turbulence patterns to yield a predicted value of dynamic distortion intensity and the associated instantaneous total pressure pattern.

Norby, W. P.

Force and Moment Approach for Achievable Dynamics Using Nonlinear Dynamic Inversion

This paper describes a general form of nonlinear dynamic inversion control for use in a generic nonlinear simulation to evaluate candidate augmented aircraft dynamics. The implementation is specifically tailored to the task of quickly assessing an aircraft's control power requirements and defining the achievable dynamic set. The achievable set is evaluated while undergoing complex mission maneuvers, and perfect tracking will be accomplished when the desired dynamics are achievable. Variables are extracted directly from the simulation model each iteration, so robustness is not an issue. Included in this paper is a description of the implementation of the forces and moments from simulation variables, the calculation of control effectiveness coefficients, methods for implementing different types of aerodynamic and thrust vectoring controls, adjustments for control effector failures, and the allocation approach used. A few examples illustrate the perfect tracking results obtained.

Ostroff, Aaron J.

Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulations of the Transonic Dynamics Tunnel Airstream Oscillator System

This paper presents a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model of the flow in the NASA Langley Research Center Transonic Dynamics Tunnel (TDT) with the Airstream Oscillator System (AOS) in operation. The TDT is a continuous-flow, closed circuit wind tunnel with a 16- by 16-foot slotted test section with cropped corners. The tunnel was originally built as the 19-ft Pressure Tunnel in 1938, but it was converted to the current transonic tunnel in the 1950s, with capabilities to use either air or heavy gas (R-134a) as the test medium. The TDT was also fitted with an AOS which can be used to create a gust field in the test section. To date, no computational analyses of the TDT involving the AOS have been performed. In this study, experimental data acquired of an oscillating airstream in the tunnel will be used to calibrate the computational analyses. A significant motivation of this work is to attempt to compare computational gust velocities to those recorded in the TDT literature. In addition to a validation of this model with experimental data, it may also be possible to supplement the experimental data with computational data. The experimental data is rather sparse and at only a few Mach numbers. Computational results may be able to expand the AOS data set. Another motivation for this work is that the Integrated Adaptive Wing Technology Maturation (IAWTM) semi-span model of the high-aspect-ratio CRM with 10 trailing edge control surfaces is currently being fabricated and will be delivered to the NASA Langley Transonic Dynamics Tunnel (TDT) for testing in late 2020. Among tests to be conducted, gust load alleviation (GLA) will be demonstrated at transonic conditions using the AOS.

Computational Fluid Dynamics

Applications of dynamic stability parameters to problems in aircraft dynamics

The application and analysis of dynamic stability parameters were examined. The effects of wing leading edge modifications on the stalling and spinning characteristics of a single engine general aviation research airplane are evaluated. It is illustrated how dynamic stability parameters measured in wind tunnel tests are used to predict the spin resistance of this class of aircraft, and that autorotation criteria are derived from the relationships which exist between static and dynamic aerodynamic characteristics.

Chambers, J. R.

Applications of dynamic stability parameters to problems in aircraft dynamics

The paper presents highlights of a recent study which illustrates the application and analysis of dynamic stability parameters. More specifically, the investigation consisted of an evaluation of the effects of wing leading-edge modifications on the stalling and spinning characteristics of a single-engine general aviation research airplane. The results of the investigation illustrate how dynamic stability parameters measured in wind-tunnel tests are used to predict the spin resistance of this class of aircraft; and that autorotation criteria can be derived from the relationships which exist between static and dynamic aerodynamic characteristics.

Chambers, J. R.

Dynamic Modeling of Solar Dynamic Components and Systems

The purpose of this grant was to support NASA in modeling efforts to predict the transient dynamic and thermodynamic response of the space station solar dynamic power generation system. In order to meet the initial schedule requirement of providing results in time to support installation of the system as part of the initial phase of space station, early efforts were executed with alacrity and often in parallel. Initially, methods to predict the transient response of a Rankine as well as a Brayton cycle were developed. Review of preliminary design concepts led NASA to select a regenerative gas-turbine cycle using a helium-xenon mixture as the working fluid and, from that point forward, the modeling effort focused exclusively on that system. Although initial project planning called for a three year period of performance, revised NASA schedules moved system installation to later and later phases of station deployment. Eventually, NASA selected to halt development of the solar dynamic power generation system for space station and to reduce support for this project to two-thirds of the original level.

Hochstein, John I.

Approximations for inclusion of rotor lag dynamics in helicopter flight dynamics models

Approximate forms are suggested for augmenting linear rotor/body response models to include rotor lag dynamics. Use of an analytically linearized rotor/body model has shown that the primary effect comes from the additional angular rate contributions of the lag inertial response. Addition of lag dynamics may be made assuming these dynamics are represented by an isolated rotor with no shaft motion. Implications of such an approximation are indicated through comparison with flight test data and sensitivity of stability levels with body rate feedback.

Mckillip, Robert, Jr.

Dynamic model testing of the X-31 configuration for high-angle-of-attack flight dynamics research

High-angle-of-attack flight dynamics of the X-31 configuration were studied using dynamic model test techniques. These tests identified phenomena including wing rock, spins, and departures that could dominate the high-alpha behavior of the configuration and restrict its usable flight envelope. Results of these tests have been used to design flight control concepts and configuration modifications to minimize adverse effects of these phenomena. The conclusion of the high-alpha envelope expansion flight tests of the X-31 aircraft will complete the database against which the dynamic model results can be correlated.

Croom, Mark A.

Automated Technique for the Detection of Step-Like Solar Wind Dynamic Pressure Changes: Application to the Response of the Transpolar Potential to Solar Wind Dynamic Pressure Fronts

The input from the solar wind (SW) and the accompanying Interplanetary Magnetic Field (IMF) is the defining feature of the solar wind-magnetosphere interactions. One of the most important SW drivers is the solar wind dynamic pressure, and most significantly its sharp changes known as pressure fronts. Sudden enhancements in solar wind dynamic pressure, SWP, have been shown to lead to intensification of the auroral electrojets (and Region 1 field-aligned currents), increase in auroral emissions, and significant enhancement in ionospheric convection and the transpolar potential. Case studies of the interaction between pressure fronts and the terrestrial space environment shed great light on their importance to the structure and dynamics of the system. However, thorough understanding of the interaction requires fully statistical investigations. These statistical studies require a large number of suitable pressure front events. In the past these have been obtained through laborious manual inspection of solar wind data. We present an automated procedure that identifies sudden step enhancements in SWP that satisfy a desired set of limiting step-like characteristics, such as magnitude of the change, sign of the change (positive/negative), and rate of change. The procedure yields a list of suitable events, along with their step features within minutes. The technique is tested for missed events and false positives by direct comparison to manual inspection of the data. Its utility is illustrated by application to the statistical effect of pressure fronts to the transpolar potential as measured by the Assimilative Mapping of Ionospheric Electrodynamics (AMIE) technique.

A. Boudouridis

Variable Dynamic Testbed Vehicle: Dynamics Analysis

The Variable Dynamic Testbed Vehicle (VDTV) concept has been proposed as a tool to evaluate collision avoidance systems and to perform driving-related human factors research. The goal of this study is to analytically investigate to what extent a VDTV with adjustable front and rear anti-roll bar stiffnesses, programmable damping rates, and four-wheel-steering can emulate the lateral dynamics of a broad range of passenger vehicles.

Variable Dynamic Testbed Vehicle VDTV collision av